Follow a blue-water river through tropical dry forest to the La Leona waterfall, where ladder climbs, cave passages, and a riverside Casado lunch round out a 5–6 hour adventure from Tamarindo. Comfortable with uneven terrain and short swims? This tour rewards effort with dramatic canyon scenery and a refreshing plunge pool.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A half-hour drive north of Tamarindo slips the beach behind you and drops you into the rough-edged light of Costa Rica’s tropical dry forest. The trail opens with scrub oaks and thorny quebracho; a blue-water river threads the canyon below, daring you into its cool pools. Ladder rungs cut into rock and short scramble sections punctuate the approach, and then La Leona announces itself—water slamming down a steep, shadowed chute into a deep plunge pool.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate to fit; be comfortable with uneven ground, short scrambles, and basic swimming.
Wildlife
History
Guanacaste’s dry forest was traditionally used for cattle ranching and small farms; local guides often share stories of seasonal work and river usage tied to that past.
Conservation
Stay on marked paths, avoid introducing soaps into the river, and pack out all trash—small groups help minimize erosion and disturbance to river habitats.
Reserve your spot on the La Leona Waterfall Tour with Lunch From Tamarindo today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear grippy shoes
Trail and river rocks get slick—light hiking shoes with a lugged sole or approach shoes are best.
Bring a dry bag
Store phone, camera, and a light layer in a dry bag for river crossings and swims.
Hydrate and pace yourself
Start hydrated and sip regularly—the hike includes ladder climbs and exposed sections that raise heart rate quickly.
Respect the river
Don’t use soap or leave trash in the water; follow the guide’s instructions for safe entry into the plunge pool.
Sturdy hiking shoes or approach shoes
Grip and foot protection for wet rock, ladder sections, and uneven trail.
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
You’ll likely swim in the river and want a dry layer for the return.
summer
1–2L water bottle or hydration bladder
Maintain hydration during climbs and river crossings; guides provide bottled water but carry your own supply.
Reef-safe sunscreen and a sun hat
Open canyon stretches give prolonged sun exposure—use reef-safe products to protect waterways.
summer